Have you recently experienced a failed dental implant? If so, you’re probably wondering why it happened in the first place. While most implants are usually successful, failure can still happen. And if it becomes loose or painful right after surgery or years later, your dentist may need to take it out. Keep reading to find out what you can expect from removing a failed implant.
What Causes Dental Implant Failure?
There are generally two main categories for dental implant failure: early and late failures. Dental implants that fail early on, within the first few months of being placed, are usually not fully bonded with the jawbone. This tends to be caused by a weakened healing process, infection, or micro motion—when the implant moves too much during the recovery period.
Late implant failures are those that occur after a year of service. Generally, the post was firm and got loose because of infection or excessive pressure. However, some late failure cases result from an implant disease called peri-implantitis—the most common reason for dental implant failure—where bacteria have developed and destroy the bone around the implant.
How Are Dental Implants Commonly Removed?
There are generally two methods for failed implant removal. The first involves using a trough bur: a device designed to shave a small portion of the bone (about 0.5-1.0 mm) efficiently along the implant edge to make its removal swifter. The other technique uses an instrument called a piezo-electric device that uses an ultrasonic energy to carefully remove bone around the implant.
When removing a failed dental implant, the most important aim is to preserve as much healthy jawbone as possible. You’ll also be provided anesthetics before undergoing the removal process, so your appointment is as comfortable as possible.
Afterwards, you and your dentist will work together to discuss the next steps for replacing your tooth again. By maintaining proper dental hygiene and following the recommend instructions for good gum and bone health, your dentist will inform you if you’re in good condition for a new replacement!
About the Practice
Tylan Creek Family Dentistry offers outstanding and caring dental services in three convenient locations—Powdersville, Greenwood, and Simpsonville. With their experienced team of dentists, they provide a wide range of advanced treatments to restore and maintain healthy smiles, including dental implants. If you have a failed dental implant and need it removed, visit their website or call them at (864) 603-2200.